Lorène Bazolo, a seasoned sprinter, arrived at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships with high hopes. The 42-year-old Portuguese national record holder had set a personal best of 22.61 seconds in the 200 meters earlier this year. This mark stood as a testament to her enduring speed and set the stage for a promising run. She also carried the experience of representing Portugal in three Olympic Games: Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024.
However, the competition proved fierce on Wednesday. Racing in the fifth preliminary round, Bazolo faced a strong field. She ultimately finished sixth in her individual race. Her time of 23.07 seconds was not enough to secure a direct qualification spot. These spots were reserved for the top three finishers in each heat. Unfortunately, her time also fell short of advancing her to the semi-finals through other available qualification routes. The round’s fastest performance came from American Anavia Battle, who clocked an impressive 22.07 seconds. Jamaican Shericka Jackson won Bazolo’s specific heat, crossing the finish line in 22.33 seconds. This performance mirrors Bazolo’s earlier experience in the 100 meters at the same championships, where she also exited in the preliminary rounds.
Speaking to journalists in the mixed zone of the National Stadium, Bazolo shared her thoughts. “What we want doesn’t always happen,” she admitted. “My goal here was to move on to the next stage, but that’s not always possible. I gave it my all, but it wasn’t enough again.” She reflected on a happier memory: “Four years ago, at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, I was happy here. I made it to the semi-final, and today I truly believed that was possible again.”
Bazolo openly acknowledged the strength of her rivals, describing them as “very strong” athletes. She explained that her recent national record of 22.61 seconds had fueled her belief in reaching the semi-finals. She pushed to match that impressive pace but conceded, “it didn’t happen.” Despite the outcome, Bazolo found pride in her overall season and achievements. “I can be proud of my performance and this season,” she stated. “I managed to set national records.” Looking ahead, she offered a note of gratitude and plans. “I thank God for leaving here healthy. Now, I need to think about my holidays, and then, prepare for next year.”
Historically, Lucrécia Jardim holds the highest national ranking in the 200 meters. She secured 17th place at the 1993 World Championships in Stuttgart.
